August 27, 2025

245. Taya Lee: Game Changer

1 hour

This is Taya Lee on assistant choreography, the clarity of movement, and learning while earning in the dance industry!

In this episode, professional dancer and choreographer Taya Lee takes us from her San Diego roots to assisting on Beyoncé's Cowboy Carter Tour and dancing with Doechii. Taya, whose credits span MTV Movie & TV Awards performances to standing in for Missy Elliott, explores:

The evolution of assistant choreography—how stepping into rooms with legends like Tyrik Patterson means being ready when "choreographer" in your title suddenly demands you create those crucial 8 counts, and learning that every creative partnership requires different skills, from demonstration to invention

Movement as language—why dancing "like water" isn't enough if you're unclear, and her revelation that fluid movement without punctuation creates run-on sentences that leave both performer and audience breathless

The myth of complete preparation—discovering that the industry teaches you while paying you, breaking down the assumption that you need to know everything before stepping into professional spaces, and finding freedom in learning through doing rather than studying from the sidelines

Taya Lee represents the new generation of dance artists championing work that amplifies Black womxn experiences. Whether you're interested in the behind-the-scenes reality of major tours, the philosophy of clear movement communication, or navigating creative careers where expertise develops through practice, this conversation offers profound insights into growing as an artist while staying true to your values.

Watch the full episode here.

Show Notes:

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